health
Why Meat Is Not Eaten on Good Friday: Origin and Options to Replace Protein
El Diario Venezuela - elDiario.com - Why Meat Is Not Eaten on Good Friday: Origin and Options to Replace Protein
TL;DR
- Abstinence from meat on Good Friday is an ancient Christian practice dating back to the 2nd century, rooted in purification and respect for Christ's death during Lent.
- Theological foundation links to Jesus' 40-day fast in the desert before his public life.
- Norms evolved after Vatican II with Pope Paul VI's 'Paenitemini' in 1966, allowing substitution of food abstinence with charity and prayer.
- The 1983 Code of Canon Law reaffirmed this framework, defining Lent from Ash Wednesday to Good Friday.
- Recent popes, including Pope Francis and Pope Leo XIV, have stressed the importance of Christian coherence, advocating for fasting from injustices, criticism, hurtful words, and excessive digital behavior.
- Healthy protein alternatives include fish, seafood, legumes (lentils, chickpeas), dairy, eggs, and nuts.
- Traditional Venezuelan dishes for Semana Santa include Pastel de Chucho (fish with plantain), fried fish with rice and salad, and chickpeas with cod.